Nauvoo Sunsets

This morning began the same as the last, with Mike being dropped off at the stage for a 7am temple building rehearsal. I woke sleeping children upon returning back to the cabin and we all had a quick bowl of cereal and some fruit before rushing to the stage for our 8am rehearsal of the Nauvoo Pageant. 

We ran through some of the more complex scenes, including the building of the city where kids are running through laying out the different streets while narrating and parades are going on. Hyrum got to be a flag boy (he's got the yellow one) and figured out how to hold it straight even with his busted hand. The stage managers are super heros at organizing so many people and explaining our roles and positions. Our choreographer was also pretty great and I admired her energy and sense of humor. She made everything fun!

After four hours spent on stage in the morning sun, and an afternoon dance/music rehearsal, I wanted to join Joe as he snoozed through our company meeting that evening.

Lily and Sawyer ended up falling asleep on the way to the Country Fair, so Mr. Stannix took the older kids ahead to our station to get things started. The goal was to let them have a few more minutes to rest, knowing how late our night would be once again. After a little while, I got the wagon out and managed to transfer a snoring Sawyer right in without him waking. 

Next, I muscled Lily into the wrap, and managed to keep her asleep as well. I slowly made my way to join the rest of the Stannix Crew over at stick ball with both of them sound asleep as the bagpipes played and the crowds hummed around us. 

They woke shortly before the British Pageant began, sweaty and wet. 

Each night I've found so much joy in these beautiful Nauvoo Sunsets, and tonight did not disappoint. Shortly before heading over to take our seats, I was in awe as I snapped this photo of the painted sky. How blessed we are to be surrounded by so much beauty!